Artichokes are a Mediterranean delicacy that are also very popular in Germany. The buds offered are the cultivated artichoke. The wild artichoke, on the other hand, is unfortunately often underestimated.
Can I eat wild artichoke?
The wild artichokecan be eaten. It tastes significantly more aromatic than the cultivated forms. In many countries it is considered an excellent winter vegetable. However, due to its hard leaves and strong spines, it is rarely sold in supermarkets.
What are wild artichokes?
Wild artichokes, Latin Cynara cardunculus, areMediterranean thistle plants The cultivated plants, real artichokes and cardoons, were bred from these. The different species differ little in size and appearance. However, the spines of the wild artichoke are stronger and the leaves are harder. This makes harvesting more difficult, which is why wild artichokes are rarely sold here.
How do I eat the wild artichoke?
Both the bud and the stemof the wild artichoke are eaten. The bud of the wild artichoke has a stronger aroma than that of the cultivated plant. The preparation is the same for both plants. As with the cardoon, the stems of this plant are edible. These are first bleached in wrapping paper or straw. The stalks are then cooked, fried or baked like stick vegetables.
Tip
Wild artichoke as a substitute for rennet
In some Mediterranean regions, dried wild artichoke flowers are used as a herbal substitute for rennet. This slows down the process of making cheese. This type of cheese production requires some experience. Thanks to the wild artichoke, a spicy, aromatic cheese is created.
